Margaret River — Wine, Waves & Caves

Margaret River is Australia's most beautiful wine region — located 200 km south of Perth, it produces only 3% of Australia's wine but over 20% of the premium wines. World-class Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, plus a gourmet scene that benefits from proximity to top-quality ingredients: truffles, Wagyu, marron (freshwater crayfish), oysters, and cheese — all local.

Wineries (over 120 Cellar Doors)

• Leeuwin Estate: Icon of the region, famous for the Art Series Chardonnay. Concerts under the stars in summer. Tasting 15 AUD.
• Vasse Felix: The oldest winery in the region (1967). Excellent restaurant and art gallery. Tasting 10 AUD.
• Voyager Estate: Beautiful gardens, outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon. Tour & Tasting from 35 AUD.
• Cullen Wines: Biodynamic pioneer, sustainable and innovative. The Diana Madeline Cabernet is one of Australia's best. Tasting 15 AUD.

Beyond the Wine

• Surfing: Margaret River's coast has some of the best surf breaks in the world — Surfers Point and Main Break are for pros (the WSL Margaret River Pro takes place here). Beginners: Prevelly Beach or Gracetown.
• Caves: Over 150 limestone caves under the region. Jewel Cave (with the largest straw stalactite in the world, 23 AUD), Mammoth Cave (self-guided, 23 AUD), and Ngilgi Cave (Aboriginal significance, 23 AUD) are the three accessible ones.
• Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse: At the southwesternmost point of Australia, where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet. Lighthouse tour 17 AUD. Dramatic coast.
• Margaret River Farmers Market (Sat 8–12): Local producers sell truffles, cheese, olives, honey, and marron. Under old trees at the Margaret River Education Campus.